India is attempting to build LPG tankers at its domestic shipyards, after its failed attempt to construct LNG carriers locally. The LPG demand in India is high, as it is the largest LPG importer after China and Japan.
The idea was suggest during a meeting called by the Indian government in last month, in order to discuss a long-term perspective for shipping. In this project, Shipping Corporation of India Ltd (SCI) and Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSL), both run by the state, will take part.
SCI is India’s largest shipowner and runs three LPG carriers. Great Eastern Shipping Company Ltd, another big fleet owner, also manages three LPG ships.
In 2017, Singapore’s BW LPG and India’s Global United Shipping, formed set up a joint venture to manage gas ships for transportation of LPG in Indian waters.
With this move, India shows that it tries to help India get started in LPG ship construction. Albeit this try, the shipping industry remains sceptical about India building LPG ships locally.
The LPG demand in India is increasing, and its supply has to be guaranteed. LPG ships might take less time to be built that the LNG ones, however, its construction will take a considerable amount of time, local media said, noting that, the supply of an LPG vessel by a foreign shipyard can take up to 30 months, while an Indian shipyard will need more time for the delivery.
